Former Reading midfielder Michael O'Neill has returned to lead Northern Ireland, just two years after he first left.

The former Newcastle United and Hibernian star played nine times for Reading in the final season at Elm Park, scoring once, but is best known for his stint in the dugout.

Taking over Northern Ireland in 2011, after winning back-to-back titles with Shamrock Rovers, he took his country to their first ever European Championship in 2016.

They lost to Wales in the first knockout stage, and narrowly missed out on qualification for the same competition in 2020.

His only role managing in England was with Stoke City, where he took over with the Potters rooted to the bottom of the Championship.

They finished 15th in 2019/20, and 14th the year after, but was sacked in August with one win from the opening five matches.

He has now signed a five-and-a-half-year contract with Northern Ireland.

The Irish FA Chief Executive, Patrick Nelson, said he is back for the long haul.

Reading Chronicle:

"Michael is back and here for the long run. We are focused immediately on the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign which starts in March 2023, but beyond that there is so much to look forward to, including the UEFA Euro 2028 tournament where we will hopefully be co-hosting as part of a successful UK and Ireland bid.”

O'Neill himself added: "I am delighted to be the Northern Ireland senior men’s manager. I am excited to see what can be achieved with this group of players and can’t wait to be in front of the Green and White Army at the National Stadium once again."